Melania’s three-word comment to Charles shows honest thoughts on state visit | Royal | News
They were welcomed by the President of the United States Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump in front of the White House’s iconic South Portico. This comes after Buckingham Palace confirmed the visit would go ahead despite the shooting incident in Washington DC on Saturday night. Cole Allen, 31, was charged with attempted assassination of the president and two firearms counts following an incident at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner. He appeared in court yesterday and will appear in court again on Thursday.
The King is understood to be “greatly relieved” that Trump escaped unharmed during the incident. Following the event, the Palace confirmed that the state visit would go ahead as planned with only minor changes to the programme.
The royal family was photographed smiling warmly as she was greeted by the president and first lady on Monday. The four then met for tea and attended a garden party, which was attended by a number of notable guests, including former Team GB diver Tom Daley.
Lip reader Jeremy Freeman offered an insight into what Melania Trump said to Charles when the pair came face-to-face outside the White House. As they shook hands the King said: “Oh, it’s so good to see you.” To which Melania responded: “I’m so glad to see you.” He later clarified his feelings about the official visit with a simple three-word comment: “I’m really pleased.”
After Trump shook hands with the King and Melania kissed the Queen on the cheek, the two couples posed for photos in front of the White House before going inside for tea.
According to the Mirror, Trump turned towards the King before touching him on the shoulder. This action broke royal protocol and violated the unwritten rule prohibiting the initiation of physical contact.
However, this gesture can often be interpreted as a sign of warmth. Judi James told the Daily Mail: “That touch on the arm as we walked in also seemed like a more political gesture.
“This was also the first real gesture of an active, ‘private’ friendship from a Trump that is much more subdued than the exuberant rituals we’ve seen in his recent meetings.” [in September 2025]”
However, the expert added that the King did not appear to be bothered by the breach of contract. She added: “Charles always seemed more relaxed about it than his mother [Queen Elizabeth II]and Trump’s action was extremely harsh on Trump.
“Just a light, temporary, very gentle touch to guide Charles in.”
The King will address the US Congress later today, becoming the second monarch to do so. The first royal to achieve this was her own mother, more than three decades ago in 1991. Both the King and Trump will speak at a dinner tonight. On Wednesday, the King will visit the 9/11 memorial and meet with first responders as well as families of those killed during the tragedy.
The King and Queen will bid a formal farewell to the Trumps on Thursday before departing for Bermuda, where the King also serves as head of state.
